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Taco-Stuffed Shells

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Warm, cheesy taco-stuffed jumbo shells filled with a savory beef mixture topped with melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells These are the stars of our show!
  • 1 lb Ground beef Hearty protein adds wonderful flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Add sweetness when sautéed.
  • 1 cup Salsa Brings in the taco flavor.
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded Rich and melty, pairs perfectly.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Provides smoothness and delightful melt.
  • to taste cups Additional cheese for topping For that extra cheesiness!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and lay shells on a lightly oiled sheet to prevent sticking.
  3. Finely chop the onion.
Assembly (meat filling)
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef. Break it up and brown thoroughly. Cook until no pink remains and juices run clear. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Stir in salsa and simmer 1–2 minutes to blend flavors. Remove from heat.
  4. Mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack while the meat is warm so the cheeses melt into the filling. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Filling and baking
  1. Spoon meat-cheese mixture into each jumbo shell, about 2–3 tablespoons per shell, depending on shell size. Arrange filled shells seam-side up in a lightly greased baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle additional cheese over the shells to your liking.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and edges are bubbling. If you like a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes more while watching closely.
  4. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the filling sets.
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

Use large or extra-large jumbo shells; smaller shells make stuffing awkward. Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef, or use cooked lentils/black beans for a vegetarian option. If you don’t have salsa, substitute ¾ cup diced tomatoes plus taco seasoning. For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef and reduce the topping cheese.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!